Men in region urged to share accounts

Health staff in Moray are encouraging men to open up about their mental health as part of an international campaign.

The team at the Mental Health and Wellness Centre in Elgin is encouraging people to submit videos detailing their own experiences.

It is hoped the campaign, which runs until March, will showcase different experiences and perspectives that locals have had, to spark conversations between friends and family.

Centre manager Pauline Forbes hopes the initiative can be an “exciting way” to reach out to men who may struggle to talk about their own mental health.

“Asking for support can often be hard for people”

She said: “We want to encourage men to look after their mental wellbeing just as they would their physical health.

“Asking for support can often be hard for people, especially men.

“We know that everyone’s mental health journey is different, that’s why we work with people to find the tools that work for them.

“We’re not medically treating someone or trying to ‘fix’ them; we’re working with them to identify and plan support systems that will keep them well and avoid feelings of crisis, distress and overwhelm.”

Last year the Mental Health and Wellness Centre in Elgin, which is run by charity Penumbra, supported 1,500 people with support and advice.

Videos on the theme of “different perspectives” can be submitted by email to moraywellnesscentre@ penumbra.org.uk